The region is buzzing this week with highlights this week, and today is no different. Here’s a quick look at the key Middle East Updates shaping the region right now.
10 Middle East Updates For You
1. Abu Dhabi Unveils Al Khail Square, A New Equestrian-Inspired Urban District
Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed has launched Al Khail Square. It’s a major new development at the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club. The project will blend the emirate’s equestrian heritage with modern urban living, as per Gulf Today. The new destination will feature advanced equestrian facilities, premium residences, healthcare services, commercial spaces and a world-class members’ club. The space includes green spaces, pedestrian-friendly zones and modern infrastructure for sustainability.
2. UAE Revokes Recognition of Midocean University Degrees
The UAE Ministry of Higher Education has cancelled all recognition of degrees from Midocean University. This was announced following a compliance review that uncovered major violations of national standards. The move renders all its qualifications invalid for jobs or professional use in the UAE. Students may appeal individual cases without expecting guaranteed outcomes. Authorities found the institution had failed to meet accreditation rules and had been operating without proper quality controls. The ministry urged families to verify a university’s licensing status, as per Gulf Today.
3. Jason Statham Visit teamLab Abu Dhabi’s
Jason Statham visited the teamLab Phenomena exhibition in Abu Dhabi recently. He uploaded interesting posts about his visit on his Instagram, drawing strong interest from tourism officials. His stop at the immersive digital art experience highlights how the city’s growing cultural appeal is gaining a global reputation.
4. Qatar Discovers 21-Million-Year-Old Sea Cow Species In Landmark Fossil Find
According to News.com, scientists have uncovered 21-million-year-old fossils of a tiny sea cow species, ‘Salwasiren qatarensis’ in Qatar. Weighing about 250 pounds, far smaller than today’s dugongs, the species dates back to the Early Miocene.
5. flydubai Issues Travel Advisory as DXB Braces for Record December Crowds
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flydubai has issued travel advice as Dubai International Airport prepares for its busiest month ever. It is expected to have over 10 million passengers in December. Travellers are urged to arrive at least four hours before departure, use online check-in, and consider home or City Check-in services. As mentioned on their Instagram accounts, it’s better to update travel details via “Manage Your Booking,” use Terminal 2 self-service kiosks for faster baggage drop, and monitor flight information screens to avoid last-minute panic.
6. Dubai Rolls Out Robotaxi Trials in Jumeirah and Umm Suqeim via Uber App
Dubai has launched trial robotaxi services in Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah. They are now bookable through the Uber app via the “Autonomous” option. Operated with WeRide, the vehicles currently run with a safety driver and are set for full driverless deployment in 2026. The rollout supports Dubai’s plan for 25 per cent of public transport to be autonomous by 2030, according to Gulf Newss.
7. IHG Expands Saudi Footprint With New Hotel Indigo Grand Square Jeddah
IHG Hotels & Resorts is expanding in Saudi Arabia with the signing of Hotel Indigo Grand Square Jeddah. As mentioned in a report by Connecting Travel, this makes it the third Hotel Indigo in the kingdom and part of a 60-property pipeline. Developed with Ajdan, Masic and Sedco Capital, the 150-key hotel will be located within the Grand Square mixed-use project on King Abdulaziz Road. It will feature neighbourhood-inspired design, speciality dining, a health club, a pool and lifestyle programming.
8. Abu Dhabi Debuts Its First Arabic Opera ‘Antar and Abla’ to Strong Early Buzz
Abu Dhabi’s first Arabic opera, Antar and Abla, debuted with an impressive preview at the International Tennis Centre ahead of its December 12 public opening, as mentioned in Filipino Times. The production blends orchestral music, dance, projection and cinematic staging to retell the classic love story on a massive custom-built stage. Created in just 10 days, the show marks the UAE’s Year of Community, inviting families, newcomers and culture lovers to experience a large-scale, accessible celebration of Arab heritage.
9. Surge In Hydroponic And Vertical Farming In Saudi Arabia
Hydroponics and vertical farming are gaining popularity in Saudi Arabia. It is forging the idea of sustainable ways to grow food with minimal land and up to 90% less water in the Kingdom as per Arab News. Farmers in Qassim are adopting advanced hydroponic systems that offer precise control over climate and nutrients. It also improves yields and supports year-round production.
Also Read:Beast Land Opening In Riyadh To Extra Busy Travel Season In Dubai; 10 Middle East Updates For You
10. Cinemacity Revives Holiday Classics With New Festive Marathon and Seasonal Treats
Cinemacity has updated its Festive Movie Marathon for December. They are adding weekly screenings of Elf and The Polar Express every Thursday and Friday. Guests can watch one film or enjoy both with a marathon ticket. The cinema is also offering themed treats, including the over-the-top Elf Dessert and festive popcorn combos, plus hot chocolate and mulled wine. All packages are available as gift vouchers, with ticket bundles starting at AED85 for individuals, AED125 for two, and AED225 for families.
That wraps up the latest Middle East Updates. But we know the news stream never really stops. More insights and regional highlights are on the way.
Cover Image Courtesy: Jason Statham/Instagram, flydubai/Website
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